Roasted Fennel
Discover the simple elegance of Roasted Fennel, a versatile side dish that transforms the naturally sweet, slightly anise flavor of fennel bulbs into caramelized perfection. This recipe highlights the fennel’s robust taste with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a seasoning of salt and pepper, and, if desired, a finishing touch of grated Parmesan and fragrant lemon zest. Roasted to golden-brown tenderness in just 30 minutes, this dish is as easy to prepare as it is stunning to serve. Whether garnished with fresh thyme or fennel fronds for a burst of freshness, this gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or wholesome grain bowls. Perfect for weeknight meals or as an elegant addition to holiday dinners, this Roasted Fennel recipe is a must-try for lovers of simple, flavorful cooking.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 whole fennel bulbs
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, grated)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Trim the fennel bulbs by cutting off the stalks and fronds. Reserve some of the fronds for garnish, if desired.
Cut each fennel bulb in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 1/2-inch-thick wedges.
Place the fennel wedges onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Drizzle the fennel evenly with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and ground black pepper.
Toss the fennel wedges gently to coat them thoroughly in the oil and seasoning. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast the fennel in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is tender and golden brown around the edges.
If desired, sprinkle the roasted fennel with grated Parmesan cheese and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly crispy.
Remove the fennel from the oven and, if using, garnish with lemon zest and fresh thyme or reserved fennel fronds before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or topping for your favorite protein or grain dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
641 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 45.7 g | 59% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.9 g | 74% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 24 mg | 8% | |
| Sodium | 3356 mg | 146% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 37.7 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.5 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.2 g | ||
| Protein | 28.8 g | 58% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 895 mg | 69% | |
| Iron | 3.8 mg | 21% | |
| Potassium | 1995 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
